A repeat performer, but now with a far more impressive resume, Jerry Kill has accepted an invitation to return as principal speaker at the 62nd annual Elks' Boys All-Sports banquet set for Wednesday, April 29.
Kill, who made his first appearance at the Elks' affair honoring Du Quoin High School's athletes in 2003, had just completed 1-10 and 4-8 seasons as Southern Illinois University's head football coach. He continued to guide the Salukis to five consecutive post-season appearances and received national coach-of-the-year honors prior to resigning following the 2007 season.
Accepting a similar position at Northern Illinois University, Kill led the Huskies to a post-season bowl game in his first year there last fall.
The Elks' banquet committee, headed by Richard "Doc" Holladay, selected Kill as their first speaking choice as a result of Kill's successful coaching career and his creation of a cancer-related foundation in southern Illinois.
And, too, it's noteworthy that he has already signed A.J. Hill, one of Du Quoin High School's top senior athletes, to continue his sports career at NIU located in DeKalb.
The banquet, which again will be held at the American Legion hall, is open to the general public. Tickets for the affair, which includes a dinner, will soon be available.
